Jacques Séguéla

Asked to revisit the Rolex affair, Jacques Séguéla claimed in 2015 that even a 'tramp' could save €1 500 to buy one. His attempt to explain his 2009 remark triggered a new wave of criticism, considered even more detached from the reality of poverty.

State of the evidence

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Personally implicated

During a public exchange in March 2012, Jacques Séguéla used a vulgar insult against Audrey Pulvar following a political discussion. The segment was quickly reported by the media and fuelled criticism of his tone and treatment of journalists.

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Personally implicated

After US criminal charges against Dominique Strauss-Kahn were dropped while the affair remained extremely sensitive, Jacques Séguéla publicly recommended a media comeback strategy based on acknowledgement, publicity and apologies to women. The advice was criticised as an attempt to rehabilitate his reputation through communications.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

During the subsequent investigation into Bolloré Group's activities in Africa, Le Monde revealed a February 2010 email sent by Jean-Philippe Dorent to Jacques Séguéla. The message forwarded a draft statement and asked him to intervene with minister Bernard Kouchner concerning France's position on the Togolese election.

State of the evidence

Documented

In a book published in 2009, Jacques Séguéla recounted in considerable detail how he had arranged for Nicolas Sarkozy and Carla Bruni to meet at his home. The publication fuelled controversy over his taste for media exposure, his closeness to the head of state and disclosure of private information.

State of the evidence

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Personally implicated

On France 2, Jacques Séguéla defended Nicolas Sarkozy's taste for outward signs of wealth and declared that anyone who did not own a Rolex by age 50 had 'failed in life'. The remark provoked a very strong public reaction and became an enduring symbol of social detachment.

State of the evidence

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Personally implicated

In October 2009, Jacques Séguéla fiercely attacked the internet, accusing it of spreading false information, rumours and reputational damage, going so far as to call it 'the greatest piece of filth' invented by humanity. The outburst prompted widespread criticism from digital media and internet users.

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Personally implicated

A Le Monde retrospective on Jacques Séguéla's career mentioned among his most controversial experiences the assistance he provided to Togolese President Gnassingbé Eyadéma, in power since 1967 and repeatedly criticised for his authoritarian rule. The episode formed part of the practice of French communications consultants working for controversial foreign leaders.

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Political responsibility

During the 1988 presidential campaign, Jacques Séguéla and RSCG reused certain techniques and slogans associated with political communications, particularly those surrounding 'Génération Mitterrand', to promote communications and training activities. Le Monde described a blurring of boundaries between electoral campaigning, commercial advertising and the agency's self-promotion.

State of the evidence

Reported by the press

Attribution

Directly implicated